SOUTH Africa’s newest running hero, Ryan Sandes, was named as one of five Heroes of Running in 2008 by Runner’s World magazine.

In the December issue Sandes, along with local groundbreaker Oscar Pistorius, marathon record- holder Haile Gebrselassie, Comrades legend Riel Hugo and speedster Usain Bolt were recognised for their outstanding achievements in the sport of running.

The feature highlights key aspects of each hero including that of Sandes, who defied the unspoken lore of ultra runners when, with only two years of running experience he competed in and won one of the toughest endurance races on the planet – the Gobi March.

In addition to this he also went on to win the challenging Sahara Race earlier this year.

Pistorius shook the running community the world over when he won his appeal to compete against able- bodied athletes this year.

Ethiopian Gebrselassie’s success has made him an ambassador for his sport and his homeland using his wealth and stature to uplift his fellow countrymen.

Pure inspiration comes from 66-year-old Hugo, who completed 40 consecutive Comrades marathons.

The world’s fastest man, Bolt shares his personal aspirations, hoping that through his example he can restore track running to its former glory.

Runner’s World Editor, Mike Finch remarked: “Our Heroes of Running feature is a way for RW to recognise runners who have excelled in any area in the sport of running.

“This year we have focused on the performance aspect of these runners but they also inspire something in all of us.

“From the raw talent of Gebrselassie and Bolt to the vasbyt of Sandes and Hugo and the inspiration of Pistorius. Each of these runners has stood out from the crowd in 2008.” — Sapa